UCD hold out for Arklow victory

UCD’s Major 1 C side ended their poor run of form which had seen them only pick up two points from their last five games in difficult conditions on Saturday against Arklow Town.

Starting the brighter of the teams in the first half, UCD piled on the pressure with the majority of possession in the opening exchanges without creating any clear cut chances on goal. However, on the half hour mark a brilliant through ball found Mark Purcell clean through on goal and he slotted calmly past the on-rushing Arklow keeper to deservedly give UCD the lead.

With chances few and far between for the remainder of the half UCD took a deserved 1-0 lead into the break.

The second half saw a complete turn-around in the game with Arklow beginning to get on top, and they created a number of good chances only to be stopped by a resolute UCD defence and some fantastic saves by UCD’s keeper Daragh McCarney. UCD’s captain Glen McNulty was forced off with a groin injury ten minutes into the second half, however the students didn’t let that bother them however, as a superb defensive display from Fred Kenny and makeshift centre-back Brian Glennon helped UCD to keep a clean-sheet and hold out for a much needed victory.

With only three games remaining in the season, UCD remain in contention for back to back promotions and face a crucial game at home to Ballyfermot on Saturday.